Anthony Phan

To Anthony Phan, self-understanding and integrity are the doors to a meaningful life. He said, “You have to understand what your values are as a person. No one else can decide them for you. Then, harness those values in your life and work — but this can only work if you are being true to yourself.”

Anthony earned his bachelor's degree from Virginia Tech last spring and is now pursuing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering.

Today, Anthony is a proud, confident Hokie, but as a first year student, he initially struggled to find his place on campus. Through campus resources, he learned about Virginia Tech’s Cultural and Community Centers. When he started to attend the APIDA+ Center’s events, he found friends, community, and purpose. He has worked with the center ever since.

His nominator said that Anthony’s peers in APIDA+ recognize him as a leader. He mentors undergraduate students in the center and organizes group meetings and informal outings to help students feel a sense of belonging. Through his leadership, he continues to strengthen the community that helped him find his way.

“Anthony has always been a leader who seeks to understand himself better so that he can be a role model for others,” said his nominator.

As an undergraduate, he also worked for the Office of Undergraduate Academic Integrity, demonstrating a tangible commitment to upholding shared university values. In the Spring 2025 semester, Anthony was named Undergraduate Student of the Year by the Association for Student Conduct Administration for his contributions to the university.

Now, Anthony serves as a Graduate Student Mentor and a peer leader.

Anthony’s nominator said, “He is a caring and kind mentor, and a respected young man with high standards who is unafraid of working hard and tackling challenges so that he is

Anthony said he is proud of how he has progressed since starting college as an undergraduate. He said, “Back then, I could not imagine the person I am today.”

Anthony’s passion is learning about others. For Anthony, mentorship has always been mutually beneficial. In his mentorship roles, he enjoys passing along experiences he gained from past mentorship and advice from his former mentors.

He said, “I believe that this is one of my many purposes in life: to share my experiences with other people, and hopefully they will pay it forward.”

After he earns his master’s degree, he plans to work as an engineer in the manufacturing industry. As he prepares for his professional career, he remains committed to living out his values in pursuit of helping others.

For reflecting on his experiences to help others learn and grow, Student Affairs is proud to present the Aspire! Award for PURSUE SELF-UNDERSTANDING AND INTEGRITY to Anthony Phan.